Lori DeJong

Love’s True Calling by Lori DeJong is a Christian Contemporary Romance. “Newbie Christian” Harper Townsend finally believes she has found her calling. When she enters a class for her degree, she is surprised to find a man from her childhood. Adolescent Psycologist Wyatt McGowan practices psychology, teaches classes at a Christian college, and helps run. a non-profit for teenagers wo are struggling and trying to build connections.

When the pair find themselves back together, they work to overcome the pain from their past and work to build a positive future together with each other and for those around them

As someone who often struggle to belong and fit in, this book really spoke to my heart. Lori DeJong did an excellent job building the characters and develloping the storyline. I would love to see more books about the characters and the backstories. and stories of the characters in this book.

So if you enjoy Christian Contemporary Romances, check out Love’s True Calling by Lori DeJong for yourself. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.… (meer)

This is a romance story focusing on the relationship between Harper and Wyatt takes some unanticipated twists and turns. They knew each other since high school so much has changed.

This couple faces difficulties they’ve had in the past. Harper’s life has turned around. She is earnestly seeking God’s will for her life. It isn’t easy but Wyatt is trying to l see Harper through new eyes – like the way God sees her. Some of the topics covered in this book include bullying, teen suicide, helping children in danger, and parents who neglect their children. Following the calling God has placed on their lives, even if it means leaving someone you love deeply. I liked how this author had a deep faith message throughout this novel without being preachy. I liked that about this debut novel.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/… (meer)

This story is an easy read and flows well. I loved Harper because Harper has finally started listening to God for her direction. It was funny how she returns to college years later only to run into an old friend. Well I don’t know if I would call Wyatt just a friend. As you read more you discover the history these two have . The backstory on them is pivotal to the book because it lays a foundation of their relationship. It shows how forgiveness can lead to being free from negative thoughts.

The best part of the story for me is when Harper volunteers at ConnectUp. Wyatt is a big part of the organization and at times Harper wasn’t sure he wanted her there. The at risk teens they minister to have real issues and I love how the author handles subjects like depression, suicide, self image, abusive relationships and bullying. Bring a part of the meeting after the kids leave, Harper becomes intrigued by the ministry, I like how Wyatt explains that they use terms that the teens will understand. They break down scripture so it is relatable to them at their level. What a great way to reach the youth and also give personal examples so they see that you do understand what they are going through.

Harper has overcome a tragedy in her life that I didn’t suspect at all. As she talks about it, I felt tears forming and was hoping for her to let go of her pain. In the tough times she seemed to be alone because she didn’t know how to express her feelings. She was surrounded by family but the pain was overwhelming for her. Now it makes sense why she is so drawn to kids. She has a lot to offer but something is holding her back? Is Wyatt not sure she can be trusted? Is he afraid that she will not be able to minister without saying the wrong words? He needs to accept that Harper is not the same person he knew in high school.

The author deals with one particular subject that I am certain we have all faced. Bullying is something that damages a person emotionally and can push them over the edge. When Harper finds out what happened to someone she knew in high school her heart drops. Wyatt all this time has blamed her for being a part of something she had no idea about. I know what it feels like to be bullied in school. I hated going to high school where everyday I was faced with a group of girls who tortured me with their hurtful words. I appreciate how the author talks about bullying in the story and the effects it can have on someone.

This story is such a good look at following your direction from God. Harper struggles trying to figure out if she is being called to ministry. She still feels like she would be letting her parents down if she walked away from a degree. Wyatt is very encouraging and together they start to heal from their past. I loved how the author uses these two characters to illustrate how we can carry hurt for years without realizing that we judged someone unfairly.

I didn’t realize how much this story affected me until the end. Our past can hold us back if we allow it. Harper and Wyatt are good examples of learning to forgive and letting go of the past. Do Harper and Wyatt end up together? Will their paths connect or divide as they each seek God for their future? Don’t miss this powerful story of redemption, opening doors to helping teens and second chances.

“If given to the Lord to use as He sees fit, He’ll turn all of that ugliness into something beautiful.”

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (meer)